Governor General visits Pohnpei

Australia's Governor General Quentin Bryce visited Pohnpei recently. It was the first Head of State visit by any of the FSMs development partner nations since the FSM was formed as an independent country. It was a historic occasion and great to witness it.

 The GG was met by the Vice President Alik Alik at the airport after arriving on her Australian Airforce jet. Richard Marles (Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs (and Foreign Affairs)) and many others also accompanied her on the visit.

 Not a bad photo with Sokez Rock in the background.

 The GG was only on the ground in the FSM for about 18hrs but she crammed a lot in. After what must have been a very quick freshen up at her hotel there was a welcoming dinner. We were lucky enough to get invites to this. The members of the GGs delegation were only to happy to sit down to a great meal after a busy day. The FSM traditions were out on display. Above are some of the sakau makers in traditional dress.

 The GG and the FSM President attempt to discuss some issues, must have been a little difficult though with so much going on around them.

 The traditional sakau ceremony to welcome the honoured guests.

 Sakau being ground and filtered.

 The next morning the GG had a formal visit out at the FSM President's office.

 Planting trees. Brand new shovels (stickers still on).

 Next stop was a visit to the 'Pohnpei Island Food Community'

 Obesity and diabetes are major concerns across the FSM, but PIFC is definitely taking the bull by the horns and have great plans in place in an attempt to get back to having the local Micronesians eating more traditional foods.

Last stop in what was a very busy morning was visit to the Maritime Wing. We all briefly met the GG which was great. A quick presentation by the MSA followed by an even quicker Patrol Boat visit and then it was off to the airport and the next country.

The Governor General is a remarkable lady. She is certainly switched on to the local issues in each country which was great to see. It was certainly something special to meet her and listen to her.